Drake Presents Rihanna with Vanguard Award… and His ‘Love’

Drake didn’t get to the VMAs early enough to accept his own award, but he made it just in time to present the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award to Rihanna and he followed his speech it with an artsy post on social media of him nuzzled up to her cheek.

The couple have never actually confirmed that they are dating, but the rapper was emotional as he handed the awards to Rihanna. He talked about her music, her personality and her ability to stay grounded, and then publicly declared his long-time love for the international pop star.

“We love the music which could change styles from album to album,” he said. “We love the videos which change their artistic vision from year to year. But most of all, we love the woman who hasn’t changed since day one. She’s someone I’ve been in love with since I was 22 years old. She’s one of my best friends in the world. All my adult life, I’ve looked up to her even though she’s younger than me.”

Fans on Twitter were convinced he was going to propose. Of course, that didn’t happen, but the pair shared an on-camera kiss.

“This is a night for us all to be thankful for what you have done for us!,” Drake posted on Instagram. “You have affected so many of our lives in the best way possible. Tonight we celebrate you! @badgalriri.”